Donnelly Foundation awarding scholarship

Kathleen Johnson, right, and the other members of the Patrick Donnelly Foundation, have received generous support from residents and businesses, allowing the foundation to offer a scholarship in two consecutive years. (click for larger version)

March 13, 2011

STURBRIDGE — More than two years have passed since Kathleen Johnson's son, Patrick Donnelly, was fatally shot while driving his car in Jacksonville, Fla.

As a result of her commitment to honoring her son's life and the contributions of area residents and businesses, the Patrick Donnelly Foundation is prepared to award its second scholarship this spring.

Johnson established the Patrick Donnelly Foundation to pay tribute to the legacy of her son, who moved to Sturbridge when he was seven years old and became a standout basketball player on the Tantasqua Regional High School varsity basketball team. He served as the team captain during his senior year, and also took part in such extra-curricular activities as the school chorus and Student Council. After graduating from TRHS, Donnelly continued his studies at Westfield State College.

"This scholarship is meant for a student who plans to follow the same path as Pat by going to Westfield State," Johnson said. "Pat was a good, loving person who always paid it forward, and we are looking for a senior who displays those qualities."

For more on this story, please see tomorrow's Southbridge Evening News.